Darkly floral and intense, the 2009 Esprit de Beaucastel bursts from the glass with a whiff of balsamic spice that gives way to sage, pine shavings and dried black cherries. This is cool-toned, fresh and remarkably balanced. Crisp red and black fruits ride a wave of tantalizing acidity as violet inner florals swirl throughout. Edgy tannins linger, offset by a solid core of primary concentration as the 2009 tapers off with exceptional length, slowly working its way to maturity. This is an exceptional wine from a difficult season. The 2009 vintage was the third straight drought year, with a severe heat spike in September and a deluge of ten inches of rain on October 13th. Multiple passes during harvest were necessary, and some fruit required drying on straw mats. Luckily, ideal weather followed until the end of harvest. -- Eric Guido

The 2009 Esprit de Beaucastel is made up of 40% Mourvèdre, 28% Syrah, 27% Grenache and 5% Counoise. It has a medium ruby-garnet color and pretty nose of dried cherries, cranberries, dark chocolate, old leather and soy hints with dried herbs and coffee bean—this still has plenty of fruit and has just begun its ascent into tertiary character. The medium-bodied palate offers wonderful layers of savory fruits, with a firm frame of chalky tannins and good freshness, finishing very long. This still has plenty of time ahead but is drinking beautifully! - Erin Brooks

Deep purple core with a paler rim. Succinct aromas of brambly raspberry and stewed strawberry leap from the glass accented with hints of milk chocolate sage and coconut oil. The palate is bright with red cherry distinct chalky minerality and a healthy dose of chocolate. This multi-layered wine does a terrific job achieving an old-world style while staying true to its own unique personality. Decant before drinking or age this for a few years and enjoy over the next decade.